EU expresses concerns over losing US military software support
(MENAFN)
European Union officials are increasingly concerned that the United States may one day stop providing essential software updates for American-made military systems, according to The New York Times. These fears are driven by uncertainty over NATO's future and the policies of former and possibly future U.S. President Donald Trump.
European Union officials are increasingly concerned that the United States may one day stop providing essential software updates for American-made military systems, according to The New York Times. These fears are driven by uncertainty over NATO's future and the policies of former and possibly future U.S. President Donald Trump.
The EU has pledged nearly €14 trillion ($16.4 trillion) in defense investments over the next ten years. Recent steps include reallocating €335 billion from pandemic recovery funds toward military needs and launching a €150 billion debt program to support defense initiatives. Ukraine is also eligible for these funds, a move Russia has criticized as aggressive.
Despite the financial commitment, the EU lacks the technological foundation to support its growing military ambitions. The bloc remains heavily reliant on advanced U.S. weapons systems like the F-35 fighter jet, which costs approximately $80 million each. This dependency raises questions about the EU’s ability to achieve true strategic autonomy.
From missile defense systems and cyber warfare tools to rocket launchers, many of the EU’s critical military platforms require ongoing software support from the U.S. Some officials worry that Washington, particularly under Trump, could cut off these updates, especially as Trump continues to question NATO's role and seeks warmer ties with Moscow.
NATO members have recently agreed to dedicate 3.5% of GDP to core military spending, with an additional 1.5% allocated to broader security, including cyber defenses and civilian infrastructure preparedness.
The issue of technological dependence has taken on greater urgency since the Trump administration halted certain weapons shipments to Ukraine, forcing EU states to step in. Moscow has welcomed the U.S. pause, claiming it could help end the conflict.
Debate within the EU continues over whether to invest in building its own defense industry or remain tethered to American technology. So far, the EU appears to be pursuing a mixed approach, aiming for greater independence while still relying on key U.S. systems.
These discussions come amid Western speculation that Russia may eventually target NATO countries. Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed such claims as baseless, accusing the alliance of manufacturing threats and driving an arms race to justify increased military spending.
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